As of Friday, October 24, 2025, Tropical Storm Melissa is intensifying in the Caribbean Sea, posing significant risks to Jamaica. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) anticipates that Melissa will strengthen into a major hurricane by the weekend, with maximum sustained winds potentially reaching up to 145 mph by early Tuesday. Tropical Storm Melissa is tracking toward the eastern Caribbean, bringing the threat of heavy rain, strong gusts, coastal flooding, and dangerous surf. Meteorologists warn that islands in the storm’s path should prepare now.
What You Need to Know About Storm Melissa
- Current Status: Melissa is moving slowly at approximately 2 mph, located about 215 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica. It is expected to remain near or just south of Jamaica through early next week, bringing prolonged impacts due to its slow movement Houston Chronicle.
- Forecast: The storm is projected to become a Category 3 or higher hurricane, with winds exceeding 111 mph. The slow movement increases the risk of extended periods of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding
✈️ Travel Impacts and Advisories
- Flight Disruptions: Airlines such as JetBlue have issued waivers for flights through Kingston (KIN) and Montego Bay (MBJ) for travel on October 25 and 26, allowing passengers to rebook without penalty Travel Market Report.
- Road Conditions: The Ministry of Transportation has deployed additional buses to areas like Portmore, Spanish Town, Rockfort, and Montego Bay to assist with emergency transportation Wikipedia.
- Government Measures: The Tourism Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to coordinate responses and ensure the safety of residents and visitors TravelPulse.
🛡️ Safety Tips for Travelers and Residents
- Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from the Jamaica Meteorological Service, ODPEM, and the National Hurricane Center.
- Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlight, and batteries.
- Secure Property: Ensure windows and doors are secured, and remove any outdoor items that could become projectiles.
- Evacuation Plan: Know your local evacuation routes and shelters.
🌴 Final Thoughts
While Storm Melissa poses serious risks, proactive preparation and adherence to safety guidelines can help mitigate its impact. We urge all travelers and residents to stay alert, follow official advisories, and prioritize safety during this challenging time.
For real-time updates and further information, please visit the Jamaica Meteorological Service and ODPEM.
